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Seven Chilean nationals have been charged in a string of nationwide burglaries that targeted professional athletes, including a Tampa Bay Buccaneers player in October of last year.
According to a release from the Department of Justice (DOJ), Pablo Zuniga Cartes, Ignacio Zuniga Cartes, Bastian Jimenez Freraut, Jordan Quiroga Sanchez, Bastian Orellano Morales, Alexander Huiaguil Chavez and Sergio Ortega Cabello are all facing 10 years in prison.
The seven nationals were reportedly members of a South American theft group that targeted NFL and NBA players across the country, stealing valuables worth more than $2 million.
The homes of Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were burglarized on Oct. 5 and Oct. 7, 2024. DOJ officials said jewelry, watches, cash and other luxury merchandise were stolen.
Weeks later, the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers player was burglarized. Jewelry, designer watches, a luxury suitcase and a firearm were stolen, according to the DOJ.
In the following months, Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals, as well as players with the Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies were reportedly burglarized.
MORE: https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/crime/theft-ring-targeted-professional-athletes-chilean-nationals/67-0a2c7009-9221-4089-ab43-91ab7b5b47d0